Assessment of the economic Viability of integrating Rooftop Solar PV Systems into Uganda’s distribution Network.

Abstract

The assessment investigates the feasibility of incorporating rooftop solar photo voltaic (PV) systems into Uganda’s national electricity distribution grid, aiming to evaluate the advantages and obstacles associated with this integration. Despite Uganda’s abundant solar energy potential, its utilization has been limited due to the absence of supportive policies like net metering or net billing. The project explores rooftop solar PV systems as a decentralized energy solution to ease strain on the national grid and promote energy security and sustainability. Technical feasibility was assessed using DigSilent Power Factory to analyze the potential impact on grid stability, power quality, and reliability, while economic viability was evaluated through Homer Pro software, which provided financial metrics such as NPV, ROI, and payback period. Findings suggest that rooftop solar PV integration is technically feasible with minimal grid impact and that advanced inverters can manage power quality effectively. Economic analysis indicates positive NPV, robust ROI, and competitive payback period, making the investment financially attractive. In conclusion, the study asserts that integrating rooftop solar PV systems into Uganda’s distribution network is both technically and economically viable, sug gesting strategic policy development, financial incentives, capacity building, and public awareness initiatives to fully leverage Uganda’s solar energy potential and achieve energy sustainability goals, fostering economic growth, and enhancing en ergy access and security in alignment with national and global climate objectives.